By Abigail Bass
As spring awakens across The City Beautiful, Orlando is bursting into bloom.
While the days grow warmer and the breeze carries hints of fresh blossoms, EPCOT is rolling out one of its most vibrant annual traditions – the International Flower & Garden Festival.
From March 4 to June 1, 2026, EPCOT invites guests of all ages to step into a world where nature, imagination, and Disney charm unite. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or making your first springtime adventure, this year’s celebration promises unforgettable experiences for all.
Ready to dig into the magic? Check out our guide with the top five things to try at the 2026 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival.
Here’s the Top 5 Things You Need to Try at EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival
Key Takeaways
Stay in Bloom at Rosen Plaza
Consider Rosen Plaza as a homebase for a full day of exploring EPCOT’s flavors and festivities. It’s a great place to unwind and be close by.
Located minutes from Walt Disney World and Orlando’s top attractions, our welcoming hotel has all you need for a relaxing stay. Enjoy family-friendly amenities including on-site dining, pet-friendly rooms, and theme park shuttle services – all designed to make your visit a stress-free one.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full spring break escape, Rosen Plaza is the perfect place for all your flower and garden adventures.
Blossoming Bites and Sips
If tasting your way around the world is your favorite EPCOT pastime, the International Flower & Garden Festival takes that joy to new heights.
Each spring, the festival’s Outdoor Kitchens serve up garden-inspired dishes that celebrate the flavors of the season. Guests can savor colorful plates crafted with fresh fruits, herbs, and vegetables inspired by global gardens.
While the 2026 menu is still under wraps, past favorites include citrus-braised short ribs, honey-mascarpone cheesecake, and the showstopping frushi. This year’s festival promises even more delicious botanical bites and refreshing beverages.
Looking to add more fun to your culinary journey? Pick up a festival passport and collect stamps as you sample your way through the kitchens, then redeem it for a sweet surprise.
Living Sculptures and Topiary Trails
One of the most iconic parts of the International Flower & Garden Festival is the breathtaking collection of Disney-themed topiaries.
These living sculptures are crafted from thousands of flowers and meticulously trimmed greenery which bring beloved Disney stories to life.
This year, EPCOT is debuting several new topiaries alongside returning favorites. Expect to see classic characters from Peter Pan, The Lion King, and Beauty and the Beast, plus modern favorites from Encanto and Inside Out.
As you wander through the park, you’ll find entire gardens transformed into immersive scenes. From butterfly havens to tranquil Zen-inspired spaces, each garden tells its own story.
Garden Rocks Concert Series
When the sun starts to set, the festival’s energy shifts from serene to show-stopping.
The Garden Rocks Concert Series brings an exciting lineup of performers to the America Gardens Theatre. The concerts offer something for every music lover, from chart-topping artists to fan-favorite tribute bands.
Showtimes in previous years ran at 5:30, 6:45, and 8 p.m., giving guests plenty of chances to catch a performance between garden strolls and Outdoor Kitchen sips.
Want to guarantee a great seat? Purchase a dining package at select EPCOT restaurants for reserved seating for the concert of your choice. It’s the perfect way to pair a delicious meal with lively entertainment.
Family-Friendly Nature Adventures
The International Flower & Garden Festival isn’t just about admiring nature’s beauty – it’s about experiencing it hands-on.
Families will find plenty of interactive activities throughout the park. Little ones will love the butterfly gardens where they can watch colorful wings flutter overhead. There will also be play areas designed to help kids learn about plants, pollinators, and the natural world.
This year, expect the fan-favorite scavenger hunt to return with a springtime twist. Pick up a map, follow clues around the World Showcase, and discover hidden festival surprises. Once completed, redeem your map for a special keepsake at select merchandise locations.
Garden-Inspired Keepsakes
No Disney festival experience is complete without bringing home a little piece of the magic.
Each spring, EPCOT releases a fresh lineup of garden-inspired collectibles featuring beloved characters and exclusive artwork. In 2026, guests can expect new apparel, home decor, and gardening accessories to celebrate the beauty of the season.
Browse the festival marketplaces scattered throughout the park and find everything from pastel spirit jerseys and character-themed planters to seed packet sets perfect for starting your own garden at home.
If you’re looking for a practical souvenir, the festival’s signature Orange Bird and Spike the Bee items always add a cheerful touch to any kitchen or garden.
